Concession Cup.Press Releases Archives.

April 23, 2016

UNITED STATES CAPS OFF DOMINENT PERFORMACE TO RETAIN CUP

United States 29
Great Britain & Ireland 7

For a third consecutive day the U.S. squad proved too much for team GB&I. Today’s final round of competition featured singles matches, in which the Americans boasted a 10-2-6 record (13-5) and cruised to an overwhelming victory in the 2016 Concession Cup. The U.S. retained the Bonallack Campbell trophy with a final margin of victory equaling 29-7 over their European opponents.

Tim Jackson scored the final point needed for the U.S. to secure the Cup by defeating Barry Hume 4&3. Nine of the 18 players for the U.S. team went undefeated during the three days of play: Team Captain Vinny Giles, Jim Holtgrieve, Tim Jackson, Scott Harvey, Patrick Christovich, Brady Exber, Doug Hanzel, Mike McCoy and Chip Lutz.

GB&I Captain Garth McGimpsey and teammate John Kemp posted the only singles match victories for their squad, winning 2-UP over Jack Hall and 3&1 over Nathan Smith respectively. The GB&I team of Ben Westgate and Mike Hearne recorded the lone victories for the Europeans during the first two days of competition, pairing up to win both their Foursomes and Fourball matches.

April 22, 2016

DAY 2 Recap - Foursomes

Pairings for Day 3 Singles Matches Announced

United States 16
Great Britain & Ireland 2

Dominance by the U.S. squad was again the theme today at the 2016 Concession Cup. The change in format to fourball from foursomes yielded the same results, with the U.S. team equaling their number of victories from Day 1 of competition, winning 8 of 9 matches Friday.

The strategy of U.S. captain Vinny Giles to repeat his team pairings from Day 1 paid dividends. The tandem of Patrick Christovich and Tim Jackson set the tone for a second straight day with a resounding 6&4 victory over Great Britain & Ireland’s (GB&I) Pat Murray and John Kemp.

The GB&I team of Ben Westgate and Mike Hearne once again recorded the only victory for the Europeans. They defeated the U.S. pair of Sammy Schmitz and Joe Alfieri 2&1 with a birdie on Hole No. 16 to close out the match.

April 21, 2016

DAY 1 Recap - Foursomes

United States 8
Great Britain & Ireland 1

Day 1 of the 2016 Concession Cup began with the U.S. team of Patrick Christovich and Tim Jackson earning the first official point in this year's competition with a dominant 6&5 win over Great Britain & Ireland's (GB&I) Barry Hume and Matt Clark. Christovich and Jackson closed out the match on Hole No. 13 after starting the contest by winning six of the first seven holes.

The lone GB&I victory on the day went to the pair of Ben Westgate and Mike Hearne, who defeated Nathan Smith and Todd White from the U.S. 3&2. The match was all square headed to the 10th tee when Westgate and Hearne rallied to win the first four holes of the inward nine before closing out the Americans on No. 16.

The final match of the day saw Seniors, Paul Simson and Brady Exber from the U.S win a closely contested battle over GB&I team captain Garth McGimpsey and Ronnie Clark. Simson and Exber got off to a fast start, winning three of the first four holes, until McGimpsey and Clark fought back to one down with two to play. An errant tee shot from the GB&ampI team on the 17th hole ultimately ended the match 2&1.

Super Senior (65+)

April 21, 2016

Charity takes center stage during Opening Celebration

Event raised $237,250 bringing two-year total to more than $414,000

Bradenton, FL – The Concession Cup hosted its Opening Celebration Tuesday night in advance of the second installment of the biennial amateur team match-play competition at The Concession Golf Club, located in Bradenton, Fla., April 21 – 23, 2016.

The evening was special for all in attendance, highlighted by an unforgettable conversation between the event's emcee and host, NBC Sports' Gary Koch, Honorary Chairman Paul Azinger, Honorary Captains Jack Nicklaus and Tony Jacklin, and special guest Urban Meyer from The Ohio State University. In addition, team members from both the United States (US) and Great Britain & Ireland (GB&I) were recognized through a team presentation.

The Opening Celebration was also designed to provide philanthropic support to six very deserving charities – The Nicklaus Children Health Care Foundation, Orphan's Heart, The First Tee of Tampa, The First Tee of Sarasota/Manatee, Rainbows and the Amateur Golf Alliance. To that end, this year's Celebration raised a record $237,250 on behalf of these worthy organizations. The 2016 amount equals the largest single-year donation in the Cup's history, and when combined with the inaugural event in 2014 has now generated more than $414,000 for charitable causes within the Bradenton / Tampa / St. Petersburg area.

The Concession Cup will deliver a world–class experience for its participants, sponsors, volunteers, attendees and members of The Concession Golf Club while showcasing top amateur golfers from around the world in the true spirit, character and competitiveness of amateur golf, all for the benefit of charity.

The Concession Cup is open to the public Thursday, April 21 through Saturday, April 23.

February 08, 2016

Bradenton, FL – The Amateur Golf Alliance (AGA) and Concession Cup proudly announced today that record-holding 18-time major champion Jack Nicklaus and Tony Jacklin, the most successful and celebrated British player of his generation, will reprise their roles and serve as honorary captains for the second installment of the biennial amateur team match-play competition.

The 2016 Concession Cup is April 19 – 23 at The Concession Golf Club in Bradenton, Florida, the award-winning course and club that was inspired by one of sports’ most-heralded acts of sportsmanship. Known throughout history as “The Concession,” it was at the 1969 Ryder Cup when Nicklaus conceded a 2-foot putt to Jacklin in the final singles match that led to the first tie in the history of the matches. The Concession Cup was created to celebrate this iconic moment.

As part of Nicklaus’ and Jacklin’s roles as Honorary Captains, the World Golf Hall of Fame members will be featured guests at the event’s Opening Celebration on Tuesday, April 19. The Concession Cup Opening Celebration will be a special night for all in attendance, giving attendees the opportunity to recognize the Concession Cup and be part of a platform to raise funds for charity.

The Concession Cup was created to celebrate amateur golf through the staging of a goodwill match-play competition. The event was also created to provide financial benefit to various worthy charities within the Bradenton / Tampa / St. Petersburg area. The inaugural event in 2014 generated over $176,000 for three very deserving organizations: Orphan's Heart Foundation, The First Tee of Tampa Bay, The First Tee of Sarasota / Manatee and Nicklaus Children's Heath Care Foundation.

“I’m delighted to be a part of the second playing of the Concession Cup,” Nicklaus said. “The inaugural event was a tremendous success and I’m very pleased to once again join my good friend Tony Jacklin as an Honorary Captain. The inaugural event in 2014 helped shine a spotlight on amateur golf, which I’ve held a deep appreciation and respect for throughout my career, and raise funds for deserving charities. On behalf of my wife Barbara, we also want to extend our heartfelt appreciation to the Concession Cup for including the Nicklaus Children’s Health Care Foundation in the fundraising efforts of the first-playing of this very special event.”

“I’ve been eagerly anticipating the return of the Concession Cup since the final putt dropped in 2014,” Jacklin said. “What a wonderful event! The spirit of the 1969 Ryder Cup Matches truly permeated the grounds of The Concession Golf Club during the inaugural event as the U.S. Team catptured the Sir Michael Bonallack and William Campbell Trophy. I’m honored for the chance to again serve as the Honorary Captain for the GB&I team and look forward to welcoming the players, sponsors and fans to the Club this April.”

Tournament officials also announced today that Concession Golf Club member, Paul Azinger will take a prominent role with the 2016 Concession Cup. Azinger, the 1993 PGA Championship winner who captained the victorious 2008 U.S. Ryder Cup team, will serve as the event’s Honorary Chairman.

“This is a great event for the community to support and attend,” Azinger said. “The Tuesday evening Opening Celebration with Jack and Tony attending and the Wednesday Am/Am tournament are perfect ways to attend a special event and give back to the community. And for charities to be involved and benefiting from the event’s success makes it even more special. Not to mention the competition...

“I know a number of these guys and there are some tremendous players – all of whom have incredible amateur records. Many have played in major championships and participated on Walker Cup teams. It is a special privilege to serve as honorary chairman and I’m thrilled to be given the opportunity to support the event and the Club.”

The Concession, a Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course designed in association with Tony Jacklin, is a nationally ranked course and club with ownership and a membership that has a history of celebrating competitive golf in its purest form. The Concession Cup is an extension of that passion.

“We’re thrilled to have the support of Jack, Tony, Paul and Gary for this year’s Concession Cup,” said Bruce Cassidy Jr., principal of The Concession Golf Club. “What a tremendous statement of strength it is to have these gentlemen agree to once again champion our tournament. Their participation increased the profile of what was a tremendously successful inaugural event, and I’m confident it will have the same effect this year as we celebrate the spirit of amateur golf, April 19-23 at The Concession.”

The Concession Cup will deliver a world-class experience for its participants, sponsors, volunteers, attendees and members of The Concession Golf Club while showcasing top amateur golfers from the U.S. and GB&I in the true spirit, character and competitiveness of amateur golf, all for the benefit of charity.

Players will compete over three days through the traditional team match-play formats of foursome, fourball and singles. Each team will be comprised of 18 players separated into three categories: eight (8) Mid-Amateur members (age 25 to 54); eight (8) Senior Amateur members, age 55 and older; and two (2) Senior Amateur members, age 65 and older.

December 07, 2015

GREAT BRITAIN & IRELAND TEAM MEMBERS
SELECTED FOR THE CONCESSION CUP 2016

Bradenton, FL – Officials from The Concession Cup announced today the selection of the Great Britain & Ireland (GB&I) team members for the second playing of the biennial amateur team match-play competition to be hosted at The Concession Golf Club, located in Bradenton, Fla., April 19 – 23, 2016.

The selection process for the GB&I team was lead by a special committee with consideration given to the Orders of Merit of the four relevant golfing unions in England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales. Also taken into consideration were the European Team Championships, European Individual Championship, British Seniors Open and The Home Internationals. Additionally, the team includes four captain’s picks for both mid-amateur and senior-amateur categories, provided by returning GB&I team captain, Garth McGimpsey.

GB&I Team

Mid-Amateur

Senior-Amateur

Over 65

Colm Campbell (CP)

Ronnie Clark (CP)

Nigel Duke

Matthew Clark

Tom Cleary

Maurice Kelly

Martin Young

Stephen East (CP)

Barry Hume

David Gardner

Mike Hearne (CP)

Garth McGimpsey* (CP)

John Kemp (CP)

Adrian Morrow

Edward Richardson (CP)

Richard Partridge

Ben Westgate

Arthur Pierse (CP)

(CP) Denotes Captain’s Pick * Denotes Playing Captian

For more information on the members of the 2016 GB&I Team and U.S. Concession Cup team please click here.

“The Concession Cup has quickly become a favorite event among our eligible amateurs and a genuine source of pride to be selected to the team,” said McGimpsey. “We have assembled a strong squad to represent Great Britain and Ireland in 2016 and are all eager to come together in the truest spirit of international competition and battle the U.S. for the Sir Michael Bonallack and William Campbell Trophy.”

The United States (U.S.) team was announced on November 16, 2015 with the selection process led by returning captain Vinny Giles and the Amateur Golf Alliance (AGA), a newly formed organization established to conduct The Concession Cup matches as well as other events in an effort to promote the amateur game at the highest level of competition. The U.S. team includes a combination of spots earned through the World Amateur Golf Ranking™ (WAGR™), as well as AGA selections, based on a list of criteria that includes results from top amateur tournaments and career performance and accomplishments. The four highest ranked U.S. mid-amateurs and senior-amateurs within the WAGR™ earned automatic spots on the team. All automatic bids for the 2016 U.S. Concession Cup Team were determined on October 15, 2015.

For more information on the members of the 2016 GB&I Team and U.S. Concession Cup team please click here.

"We congratulate the men who earned their way onto their respective teams and look forward to hosting what is undeniably a world class field next April at The Concession Golf Club," said Bruce Cassidy Jr., principal of The Concession. "We are excited to build on the success of the inaugural event and committed to insuring The Concession Cup is a biennial tradition in amateur golf played in the spirit of match-play competition on which The Concession Golf Club was founded."

The Concession Cup will deliver a world–class experience for its participants, sponsors, volunteers, attendees and members of The Concession Golf Club while showcasing top amateur golfers from the U.S. and GB&I in the true spirit, character and competitiveness of amateur golf, all for the benefit of charity.

Players will compete over three days through the traditional team match-play formats of foursome, fourball and singles. Each team will be comprised of 18 players separated into three categories: eight (8) Mid-Amateur members (age 25 to 54), eight (8) Senior Amateur members age 55 and older and two (2) Senior Amateur members age 65 and older.

The U.S. Team won the inaugural Concession Cup title in 2014, capturing the Sir Michael Bonallack and William Campbell Trophy 21 ½ to 14 ½ over the GB&I Team.

November 13, 2015

UNITED STATES TEAM SET FOR THE CONCESSION CUP 2016

Bradenton, FL – Officials from The Concession Cup announced today the selection of the United States (U.S.) team for the second playing of the biennial amateur team match-play competition to be hosted at The Concession Golf Club, located in Bradenton, Fla., April 20 – 24, 2016.

The selection process for the U.S. Team was led by returning captain Vinny Giles and the Amateur Golf Alliance (AGA), a newly formed organization established to conduct The Concession Cup matches as well as other events in an effort to promote the amateur game at the highest level of competition. The U.S. Team includes a combination of spots earned through the World Amateur Golf Ranking™ (WAGR™), as well as AGA selections, based on a list of criteria that includes results from top amateur tournaments and career performance and accomplishments. The four highest ranked U.S. mid-amateurs and senior-amateurs within the WAGR™ earned automatic spots on the team. All automatic bids for the 2016 U.S. Concession Cup Team were determined on October 15, 2015.

For more information on the members of the 2016 U.S. Concession Cup team please click here.

"The AGA is very proud of the accomplishments of the 2016 U.S. Concession Cup team members,” said the event’s founder Alan Fadel. “It is our hope that the commitment these amateurs put forth to represent their country and the amateur game serves to inspire the golf community in a way that shines a light on the Concesstion Cup and the game in general.”

“The large number of accomplished players makes the selection process very challenging,” said returning U.S. Captain, Vinny Giles. “We feel confident, however, that the 2016 U.S.team not only features the country's top mid and senior amateurs, it also features 18 true-amateur players that have dedicated years of time and energy to the game of golf. Our team is very excited about the 2016 matches and every member is proud to be representing the United States.”

The GB&I Team selection process began September 18th, at the conclusion of the 2015 Senior Home Internationals in England. The team will be chosen by a special committee and will include four captain’s picks for both mid-amateur and senior-amateur categories, which will be provided by returning GB&I Team captain, Garth McGimpsey.

The Concession Cup will deliver a world–class experience for its participants, sponsors, volunteers, attendees and members of The Concession Golf Club while showcasing top amateur golfers from the U.S. and GB&I in the true spirit, character and competitiveness of amateur golf, all for the benefit of charity.

Players will compete over three days through the traditional team match-play formats of foursome, fourball and singles. Each team will be comprised of 18 players separated into three categories: eight (8) Mid-Amateur members (age 25 to 54), eight (8) Senior Amateur members age 55 and older and two (2) Senior Amateur members age 65 and older.

The U.S. Team won the inaugural Concession Cup title in 2014, capturing the Sir Michael Bonallack and William Campbell Trophy 21 ½ to 14 ½ over the GB&I Team.

September 15, 2015

TEAM SELECTION PROCESS ANNOUNCED FOR THE CONCESSION CUP 2016

Schedule of events released for second playing of The Concession Cup

Bradenton, FL – Officials from The Concession Cup announced today the selection process for the second playing of the biennial amateur team match-play competition. The event, featuring Mid-Amateur and Senior-Amateur competitors representing the United States (U.S.) and Great Britain/Ireland (GB&I), will be hosted at The Concession Golf Club, located in Bradenton, Fla., April 20 – 24, 2016.

The selection process for the U.S. Team will be led by returning captain Vinny Giles and the Amateur Golf Alliance (AGA), a newly formed organization established to conduct The Concession Cup matches as well as other events in an effort to promote the amateur game at the highest level of competition. The U.S. Team will include a combination of spots earned through the World Amateur Golf Ranking™ (WAGR™), as well as AGA selections, based on a list of criteria that will include results from top amateur tournaments leading up to The Concession Cup, and career performance and accomplishments. The Concession Cup committee has identified eligible mid-amateurs and senior-amateurs and has ranked them in order based on their WAGR™ position. The four highest ranked mid-amateurs and senior-amateurs will earn automatic spots on the team. The Concession Cup website will display the these rankings of mid-amateurs and senior-amateurs to provide players a place to regularly verify their selection status for the U.S. Team. The rankings on the Concession Cup website will update every Thursday, in conjunction with the release of the WAGR™ standings each Wednesday. All automatic bids for the 2016 U.S. Concession Cup Team will be determined on October 15, 2015, with AGA picks selected on November 15, 2015.

"I'm excited to be a member of the newly formed Amateur Golf Alliance and look forward to continuing to build on the success of the inaugural Concession Cup," said the event's founder Alan Fadel. "Amateur golf is the lifeblood of the game and we all want to showcase that aspect of the sport. I'm passionate about the game and want to be part of a group that helps amateur golf regain its luster."

The GB&I Team selection process will begin September 18, at the conclusion of this year's Senior Home Internationals in England. The team will be chosen by a special committee and will include four captain's picks for both mid-amateur and senior-amateur categories, which will be provided by returning GB&I Team captain, Garth McGimpsey.

"The large number of accomplished amateur players in Great Britian and Ireland is sure to make our committee's job very challenging," said McGimpsey. "We're looking forward to selecting our 2016 team and feel confident that we'll field a roster that can win The Concession Cup and embody the spirit of international competition!"

The Concession Cup will deliver a world–class experience for its participants, sponsors, volunteers, attendees and members of The Concession Golf Club while showcasing top amateur golfers from the U.S. and GB&I in the true spirit, character and competitiveness of amateur golf, all for the benefit of charity.

Players will compete over three days through the traditional team match-play formats of foursome, fourball and singles. Each team will be comprised of 18 players separated into three categories: eight (8) Mid-Amateur members (age 25 to 54), eight (8) Senior Amateur members age 55 and older and two (2) Senior Amateur members age 65 and older.

The U.S. Team won the inaugural Concession Cup title in 2014, capturing the Sir Michael Bonallack and William Campbell Trophy 21 ½ to 14 ½ over the GB&I Team.

2016 DATES SET FOR SECOND PLAYING OF THE CONCESSION CUP

Bradenton, FL – Officials from The Concession Cup announced today the dates for the second installment of the biennial amateur team match-play competition. The event, featuring Mid-Amateur and Senior-Amateur competitors representing the United States (U.S.) and Great Britain/Ireland (GB&I), will be hosted at The Concession Golf Club, located in Bradenton, Fla., April 20 – 24, 2016.

"The Concession Golf Club is proud to serve a key role in the continued development of The Concession Cup, and to once again act as host to this special team match-play competition," said Bruce Cassidy Jr., General Manager The Concession Golf Club. "Our heritage is built on the spirit of match-play competition – exemplified through the historic handshake between Jack Nicklaus and Tony Jacklin at the 1969 Ryder Cup Matches at the Royal Birkdale Golf Club in Southport, England. The inaugural Concession Cup was an overwhelming success and we are excited to bring this event back to The Concession Golf Club and Bradenton, Fla. and are committed to establishing the event as a biennial tradition in amateur golf."

The Concession Cup will deliver a world–class experience for its participants, sponsors, volunteers, attendees and members of The Concession Golf Club while showcasing top amateur golfers from the U.S. and GB&I in the true spirit, character and competitiveness of amateur golf, all for the benefit of charity.

Players will compete over three days through the traditional team match-play formats of foursome, fourball and singles. Each team will be comprised of 18 players separated into three categories: eight (8) Mid-Amateur members (age 25 to 54), eight (8) Senior Amateur members age 55 and older and two (2) Senior Amateur members age 65 and older.

The selection process for the U.S. Team will include a combination of spots earned through World Amateur Golf Rankings, as well as captains selections, based on a list of criteria that will include results from top amateur tournaments leading up to The Concession Cup, and career performance and accomplishments. A similar selection process will be used to identify the GB&I Team participants. More details on the selection process for both teams will be released at a later date.

In related news, The Concession Cup announced today the return of Vinny Giles and Garth McGimpsey as team captains for the U.S. and GB&I respectively. Giles will lead the U.S. Team in defense of their 2014 Concession Cup title. While McGimpsey looks to bounce back after his GB&I squad lost the Sir Michael Bonallack and William Campbell Trophy 21 ½ to 14 ½ in the inaugural event.

Giles's inspiring amateur golfing career boasts numerous victories, most notably the U.S. Amateur, British Amateur and U.S. Senior Amateur. The Virginia native was a three-time All-American golfer for the University of Georgia from 1962 to 1966. He impressively finished second at the U.S. Amateur three straight years from 1967 to 1969 before capturing victory in 1972. He claimed the British Amateur title three years later in 1975 and won the U.S. Senior Amateur in 2009. Giles played on four Walker Cup teams between 1969 and 1975, winning three times before captaining the 1993 squad to victory. He played in 11 professional majors, including the Masters Tournament and U.S. Open Championship where he was low amateur in 1968 (T22) and 1973 (17th) respectively. He has also finished as the low amateur in three U.S. Senior Open Championships (1993, 1996 and 1997). Giles was inducted into the Virginia Sports Hall of Fame in 1976 and the Southern Golf Association Hall of Fame in 1984. Off the links Giles, now 72, is one of the pioneers of the golf agent business. He graduated from the University of Virginia Law School in 1969 and has represented some of golf's elite players throughout his career, including Davis Love III, Lanny Wadkins, Justin Leonard, Ernie Els, Beth Daniel and Meg Mallon.

"I'm honored to reprise my role as U.S. captain for the 2016 Concession Cup," said Giles. "The idea of representing your country just really resonates, and that's a message I kept hearing during the inaugural event, especially from the younger mid amateurs. There was an abundance of pride emanating from both teams in 2014 and I'm looking forward to being a part of that and experiencing the spirit of international amateur team competition again."

McGimpsey, 59, is one of Ireland's most decorated amateur golfers and brings a wealth of competitive golf experience to the GB&I team. Having represented his country over 200 times in golf tournaments, his outstanding career includes winning both the 1985 British Amateur Championship and the 1986 Eisenhower Trophy along with captaining the victorious GB&I team in the 2003 Walker Cup. McGimpsey has represented Great Britain and Ireland in five Walker Cup competitions, three as a player -- including 1989 when Great Britain and Ireland recorded an historic first victory on U.S. soil – and two as a captain in 2003 and 2005. In 2003, McGimpsey, one of the most respected men in amateur golf, was awarded the Order of the British Empire in recognition for his services to the game.

"It will be a great thrill to return as captain for team GB&I," said McGimpsey. "Our group had an unbelievable experience in 2014. To play for your country and compete knowing the tradition and history that The Concession Cup commemorates is truly special."

2016 Concession Cup Schedule of Events

April 19 - 23, 2016

TUESDAY, APRIL 19

Practice Rounds

The Concession Cup Opening Celebration

The evening of Tuesday, April 19th will be a special night for all in attendance. The Opening Celebration will feature a number of special guests from the world of golf. In addition, team members from both the U.S. and GB&I will be recognized through a team presentation. The evening will be available for sponsors and supporters to attend and perhaps most importantly will benefit worthy charities.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 20

The Concession Cup Am / Am

The Concession Cup Am/Am will provide an opportunity for sponsor representatives and individual supporters the chance to play the tournament course with the competitors from both the U.S. and GB&I teams.

THURSDAY, APRIL 21

The Concession Cup, Day 1 - Foursome Matches

The first day of the competition will feature nine (9) foursome matches. Four (4) matches will feature teams consisting of two (2) Mid Ams, four (4) matches will feature teams consisting of two (2) Senior Ams and one (1) match will feature teams consisting of two (2) Super Senior Ams.

FRIDAY, APRIL 22

The Concession Cup, Day 2 - Fourball Matches

The second day of competition is comprised of fourball matches. Four (4) of these matches will feature teams consisting of two (2) Mid Amateurs, four (4) will feature teams consisting of two (2) Senior Amateurs and one (1) match will feature teams consisting of two (2) Senior Amateurs (65+).

SATURDAY, APRIL 23

The Concession Cup, Day 3 - Singles Matches

Concession Cup Closing Ceremony

The third and final day of competition will feature 18 singles matches. The singles competition is comprised of one player from each team in match play competition. Immediately following play the closing ceremonies will be held at The Concession Golf Club.

May 3, 2014

DAY 3 - United States Wins Inaugural Concession Cup

United States 21 1/4
Great Britain & Ireland 14 1/2

Bradenton, FL – Team GB&I played the U.S. squad to a near draw during Saturday’s singles matches. Ultimately they fell short losing 9 ½ to 8 ½ after standout performances by Paul Simson and Nathan Smith from the U.S. Simon defeated Andrew Stracey 8&7 without losing a hole, while Smith took down James Bunch 7&6, only giving up one hole to his GB&I opponent. Day 3 of The Concession Cup was also marked by a 5 hour and 20 minute stoppage of play due to inclement weather at The Concession Golf Club.

Ultimately, the dominate performance by the U.S. Team during the Fourball matches on Friday proved to be the difference in the inaugural Concession Cup. The GB&I team fell behind by, what proved to be a critical 6 points on Day 2 and were not able to recover as the U.S. took possession of the Bonallack Campbell trophy with a total score of 21 ½ to 14 ½.

May 2, 2014

DAY 2 RECAP – FOURBALL

Pairings for Day 3 Singles Matches Announced

United States 12
Great Britain & Ireland 6

Bradenton, FL – OThe Fourball matches featured on Day 2 of The Concession Cup were dominated by the U.S. team. Vinny Giles's U.S. squad now takes a commanding lead into Saturday's singles matches at The Concession Golf Club after winning seven of the nine matches played on Friday. The U.S. team now leads the GB&I team 12 to 6.

May 1, 2014

DAY 1 RECAP – FOURSOMES

United States 4 1/2
Great Britain & Ireland 4 1/2

Bradenton, FL – Day 1 of the inaugural Concession Cup began with the U.S. team of Mike McCoy and Chip Lutz earning the first official point in Concession Cup history with a 5&3 win over Richard Partridge and Martin Young. McCoy and Lutz closed out the match on Hole No. 15 after posting winning scores on the last five holes of their contest.

The final match of the day saw Super Seniors, Jim Holtgrieve and Robert Lewis from the U.S team take a commanding lead winning five of the first seven holes. However, their Super Senior counterparts from team GB&I, Peter Hedges and Ian Hutcheon turned the tables on the 8th hole, winning the next eight holes in a row to win the match 4&3.

April 29, 2014

Opening Round Foursome Pairings Announced

Team uniforms supplied by official apparel provider Peter Millar

Bradenton, FL – Officials from The Concession Cup released today the pairings for the opening round of the inaugural, biennial event, scheduled for Thursday, May 1 at The Concession Golf Club in Bradenton, Fla. The first matches will feature foursome competitions beginning at 9:30am. This exciting world-class event is free to the public to attend Thursday through Saturday's final round.

Below is a complete listing of Thursday's pairings, including start times.

Match

Start-Time

Team GB&I Players

Division

Team U.S. Players

Division

Opening Ceremony at 8:50am (located on the practice range)

1

9:30am

Richard Partridge
Martin Young

Senior
Mid-Am

vs

Chip Lutz
Mike McCoy

Senior
Mid-Am

2

9:42am

Arthur Pierse
Eoghan O'Connell

Senior
Mid-Am

vs

Dr. Doug Hanzel
Todd White

Senior
Mid-Am

3

9:54am

Garth McGimpsey
Ben Westgate

Senior
Mid-Am

vs

John Grace
Gene Elliott

Senior
Mid-Am

4

10:06am

Adrian Morrow
Robbie Cannon

Senior
Mid-Am

vs

Vinny Giles
Trip Kuehne

Senior
Mid-Am

5

10:18am

Richard Latham
Harry Diamond

Senior
Mid-Am

vs

Martin West III
Patrick Christovich

Senior
Mid-Am

6

10:30am

Ian Brotherston
Matthew Clatk

Senior
Mid-Am

vs

George Zahringer
Nathan Smith

Senior
Mid-Am

7

10:42am

Maurise Kelly
James Bunch

Senior
Mid-Am

vs

Pat Tallent
Tim Jackson

Senior
Mid-Am

8

10:54am

Andrew Stracey
Edward Richardson

Senior
Mid-Am

vs

Paul Simson
Scott Harvey

Senior
Mid-Am

9

11:06am

Peter Hedges
Ian Hutcheon

Super Senior
Super Senior

vs

Jim Holtgrieve
Robert Lewis

Super Senior
Super Senior

In other tournament news, when the competitors tee it up on Thursday they will be wearing team uniforms supplied by Peter Millar, the official apparel choice of The Concession Cup. Peter Millar will also be outfitting volunteers and staff during the first playing of The Concession Cup.

The Concession Cup will deliver a world–class experience for its participants, sponsors, volunteers, attendees and members of The Concession Golf Club while showcasing top amateur golfers from around the world in the true spirit, character and competitiveness of amateur golf, all for the benefit of charity.

The Concession Cup is open to the public Thursday through Sunday. For general tournament information please call (614) 764-GOLF or visit www.concessioncup.com.

March 12, 2014

Honorary Chairman Paul Azinger to speak at Concession Cup Open House tonight

Jack Nicklaus and Tony Jacklin headline inaugural Opening Celebration

Am/Am event provides unique opportunity to compete with some of the best amateurs in the world

Bradenton, FL – Officials from The Concession Cup announced today that Paul Azinger, the events honorary chairman, will be a special guest during a reception held tonight, March 12, at The Concession Golf Club in support of the upcoming Concession Cup, to be staged April 28 thru May 3, 2014.

"Creating an amateur team event that brings the best mid-am and senior golfers from the US and Great Britain & Ireland together is a great idea," said Azinger. "I know a number of these guys and there are some tremendous players – who have incredible amateur records – many have played in major championships and participated on Walker Cup teams. The competition is sure to be intense and the event being hosted at The Concession Golf Club is extremely appropriate, understanding that Jack Nicklaus and Tony Jacklin co-designed the course."

In related news, Concession Cup Honorary Captains and World Golf Hall of Fame members, Jack Nicklaus and Tony Jacklin will be the featured guests at the inaugural Opening Celebration on Tuesday, April 29, to be held at The Concession Golf Club. The evening will be special for all in attendance, highlighted by NBC Sports' Gary Koch acting as emcee and host, Azinger participating in his role as honorary chairman and a special conversation with Nicklaus and Jacklin. In addition, team members from both the United States (US) and Great Britain & Ireland (GB&I) will be recognized through a team presentation. The night's event will benefit four worthy charities – The Nicklaus Children Health Care Foundation, Orphan's Heart, The First Tee of Tampa and The First Tee of Sarasota/Manatee. The Opening Celebration will be available for sponsors and supporters to attend.

The inaugural Concession Cup Am/Am tournament will be held on Wednesday, April 30. This special event will provide an opportunity for sponsor representatives and individual supporters to play alongside The Concession Cup competitors. The Am/Am offers golf enthusiasts a chance to play the tournament course with the players that will be making history.

"This is a great event for the community to support and attend," added Azinger. "I know the Tuesday evening Opening Celebration with Jack and Tony attending and the Wednesday Am/Am tournament are perfect ways to attend a special event and give back to the community. And for local charities to be involved and benefiting from the event's success makes it even more special. I am very close to Orphan's Heart and their good work and I know The First Tee's of Tampa Bay and Sarasota/Manatee are successful in supporting kids throughout the region."

The Concession Cup will deliver a world–class experience for its participants, sponsors, volunteers, attendees and members of The Concession Golf Club while showcasing top amateur golfers from around the world in the true spirit, character and competitiveness of amateur golf, all for the benefit of charity.

Players will compete over three days through the traditional team match-play formats of foursome, fourball and singles. Each team will be comprised of 18 players separated into three categories: eight (8) Mid-Am members (age 25 to 54), eight (8) Senior members (age 55 and older) and two (2) Super Senior members (age 65 and older).

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

MONDAY, APRIL 28

Arrivals

Practice Rounds

Competitors from both the US and the GB&I teams will arrive Monday, April 28th and will practice on the competition course, as a team, over Monday and Tuesday. The teams will utilize the practice rounds to become familiar with the course and their respective teammates.

TUESDAY, APRIL 29

Practice Rounds

The Concession Cup Opening Celebration

The evening of Tuesday, April 29th will be a special night for all in attendance. The Opening Celebration will be highlighted by NBC Sports' Koch acting as Emcee and Host, Azinger participating as Honorary Chairman and a special conversation with Nicklaus and Jacklin, 2013 Concession Cup Honorary Captains. In addition, team members from both the US and GBI will be recognized through a team presentation. And most important of all the evening event will benefit four worthy charities – Nicklaus Children's Health Care Foundation, Orphan's Heart, The First Tee of Sarasota/Manatee and The First Tee of Tampa. The evening will be available for sponsors and supporters to attend.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 30

Concession Cup Am / Am

The Wednesday Am/Am will provide an opportunity for sponsor representatives and individual supports to play alongside the Concession Cup competitors. The event offers golf enthusiasts a chance to play the tournament course with the players that will be making history.

THURSDAY, MAY 1

Recognition Breakfast

Prior to the competition getting started, sponsors and supporters will be invited to participate in a hosted breakfast at The Concession Golf Club. The breakfast will provide guests the chance to learn more from Gary Koch and Paul Azinger about the game of golf, match play competition, the Concession Cup itself and 2 of the charities being recognized throughout the week – Orphan's Heart and The First Tee of Tampa.

Foursome Matches

The first day of the competition will feature 9 foursome matches. Eight (8) matches will feature teams consisting of one Mid Amateur paired with one Senior Amateur. One match will feature teams consisting of two Super Seniors.

FRIDAY, MAY 2

Fourball Matches

The 2nd day of competition will feature 9 fourball matches on Friday morning. Four (4) matches will feature teams
consisting of two (2) Mid Ams, four (4) matches will feature teams consisting of two (2) Senior Ams and one (1) match will feature teams consisting of two (2) Super Senior Ams.

SATURDAY, MAY 3

Singles Matches

Concession Cup Closing Ceremony

The 3rd and final day of competition will feature 18 singles matches. The singles competition is comprised of one player from each team in match play competition. Immediately following play the closing ceremonies will be held at The Concession Golf Club.

February 24, 2014

Mid-Am and Super Senior players announced for United States and Great Britain & Ireland – teams are now set for inaugural event

Bradenton, FL – Officials from The Concession Cup announced today the selection of competitors for the two, eight-man Mid-Am (age 25 to 54) teams and the two, two-man Super Senior (age 65 and older) teams from the United States (US) and Great Britain & Ireland (GB&I). With today's announcement the teams are now set for the inaugural Concession Cup, to be held biennially at The Concession Golf Club, located in Bradenton, Fla., during the week of April 28th, 2014.

Vinny Giles and Garth McGimpsey, previously released, will serve as team captains for the United States (US) and Great Britain & Ireland (GB&I) respectively. Together, Giles and McGimpsey bring more than 80 years of competitive experience to the amateur team match-play competition.

US TEAM

MID-AM

Gene Elliott(West Des Moines, IA)

Crump Cup champion (2013)

Two-time Coleman Invitational champion (2007 and 2009)

Member of the Iowa Golf Hall of Fame (2012 inductee)

Four-time Iowa Mid-Am champion

Scott Harvey(Greensboro, NC)

Three-time Carolinas Player of the Year (2011, 2012 and 2013)

Two-time Carolinas Mid-Am champion (2012 and 2013)

Four-time United States Amateur qualifying medalist

North Carolina Open champion (2011)

Carolinas Amateur champion (2011)

Tim Jackson(Germantown, TN)

Walker Cup team member (two-time)

Two-time United States Mid-Am champion(1992 and 2001)

Tennessee State Amateur champion (2012)

2009 United States Senior Open – became first amateur to have the lead, or a share of it, after any round of a Senior Open. Set amateur record in First Round with a 66. Lead after 36 and went on to finish T11.

T5 finish in 2012 Northeast Amateur as the oldest player in the field

Trip Kuehne(Westlake, TX)

Walker Cup team member (1995, 2003 and 2007)

Ben Hogan Award winner (1995)

Member of NCAA Championship team – Oklahoma State (1995)

United States Amateur runner up (1994)

Two-time Masters participant (1995 and 2008)

Four-time U.S. Open participant (1996, 2003, 2005 and 2007)

Mike McCoy(West Des Moines, IA)

United States Mid-Am champion (2013)

11-time Iowa Player of the Year

Two-time Trans-Mississippi champion (2000 and 2008)

Gary Nicklaus(Jupiter, FL)

Seven-time United States Amateur participant

Porter Cup champion (1991)

PGA TOUR member (2000 – 2002) Best finish second place at 2000 BellSouth Classic

Regained amateur status in 2007

Palm Beach Kennel Club County Amateur champion (2008)

Nathan Smith(Pittsburgh, PA)

Walker Cup team member (2009, 2011 and 2013)

Four-time United States Mid-Am champion

Sunnehanna Amateur champion (2011)

The Spirit International team member – Medalist

Todd White(Spartanburg, SC)

Walker Cup team member (2013)

United States Mid-Am semi-finalist

Three-time South Carolina Golf Association Player of the Year (2004, 2010 and 2012)

U.S. Open participant (1995)

SENIOR

Previously released US Senior Team members

Vinny Giles (Playing Captain)

Dr. Doug Hanzel

Chip Lutz

John "Spider" Miller

Pat Tallent

Paul Simson

Martin West

George Zahringer

SUPER SENIOR

Jim Holtgrieve

Walker Cup team (1979, 1981, 1983)

Walker Cup captain (2011 and 2013)

Eisenhower Trophy team (1980 and 1982)

United States Mid-Am champion (1981 [inaugural event])

British Amateur runner-up (1983)

Turned professional and played on Champions Tour beginning in 1998 (best finish was T2 at The Home Depot Invitational 1999)

Regained amateur status in 2007

Robert Lewis(Pepper Pike, OH)

United States Amateur runner-up (1980)

Two-time United Stated Mid-Am runner-up (1981 and 1984)

Walker Cup team member (1981, 1983, 1985, 1987)

Two-time Walker Cup Captain (2003 and 2005)

Seven-time Masters Tournament participant – low amateur in 1987

Three-time U.S. Open participant (1978, 1983 and 1986)

Two-time Senior Division Coleman Cup champion (2003 and 2005)

GB&I TEAM

MID-AM

James Bunch (St Andrews, Scotland)

Mid-Am Stroke Play Championship of Scotland champion (2012)

Matthew Clark(Kilmacolm)

Scottish Mid-Amateur at Duddingston champion (2007)

SGU Order of Merit Newlands Trophy (2012)

Robbie Cannon

Irish Amateur Open Championship champion (2013)

Harry Diamond(Belfast, Ireland)

West of Ireland Amateur Open champion (2012)

The Spirit International team Ireland member (2011)

Eoghan O'Connell (Cork, Ireland)

Walker Cup team member (1989)

Eisenhower Trophy World Amateur team (1988)

United States Amateur Medalist (1989)

Two-time Coleman Invitational at Seminole champion (2005 and 2006)

Edward Richardson(Brighton, England)

Hong Kong Open Amateur Championship champion (2012)

Ben Westgate(Llandaff, Cardiff, UK)

Walker Cup team member (2008 and 2009)

Eisenhower Trophy team member (2008 and 2012)

Two-time Duncan Putter champion (2009 and 2012)

Two-time Trubshaw Cup champion (2008 and 2009)

Welsh Amateur champion (2008)

Tucker Trophy champion (2008)

Martin Young

Two-time Micklem Cup winner (2011 and 2013)

Two-time Solent Salver winner (2011 and 2013)

Three-time Hampshire Mid-Am winner (2011, 2012 and 2013)

Mid-Am Tour Order of Merit winner (2012)

SENIOR

Richard Latham(Lincolnshire)

English Men's Senior Championship champion (2013)

Scottish Seniors Open champion (2013)

Winner of the Titleist/FootJoy England Golf Seniors Order of Merit (2013)

Richard Partridge(Kent)

Scottish Seniors Open runner-up (2013)

Senior Home Internationals team (2013)

English Seniors' County Championship team (2013)

Previously released GB&I Senior Team members

Garth McGimpsey (Playing Captain)

Ian Brotherston

Maurise Kelly

Adrian Morrow

Arthur Pierse

Andrew Stracey

SUPER SENIOR

Peter Hedges(Kent)

Walker Cup team member (1973 and 1975)

Eisenhower Trophy team (1974)

English Stroke Play Championship champion (1976)

Three-time Berkshire Trophy winner (1973, 1976 and 1978)

Ian Hutcheon(Angus, Scotland)

Scottish Amateur champion (1973)

Scottish Open Amateur Stroke-play champion (1971, 1973 and 1977)

Eisenhower Trophy team member and individual winner (1976)

Walker Cup team member (1975, 1977, 1979, 1981)

Players will compete over three days through the traditional team match-play formats of foursome, fourball and singles. Each team will be comprised of 18 players separated into three categories: eight (8) Mid-Am members (age 25 to 54), eight (8) Senior members (age 55 and older) and two (2) Super Senior members (age 65 and older).

The Concession Cup will deliver a world–class experience for its participants, sponsors, volunteers, attendees and members of The Concession Golf Club while showcasing top amateur golfers from around in the true spirit, character and competitiveness of amateur golf, all for the benefit of charity. In addition to the focus on amateur golf and worthwhile charities the event will feature a number of the greats in the game, who have come together through the Concession Cup in an effort to support the effort of giving back. Lending their names to the event and committed to attend the opening celebration are Jack Nicklaus and Tony Jacklin (Honorary Captains), Paul Azinger (Honorary Chairman) and Gary Koch (Opening Celebration MC & Host).

Bradenton, FL – Concession Cup officials announced today that record-holding 18-time major champion Jack Nicklaus and Tony Jacklin, the most successful and celebrated British player of his generation, will serve as honorary captains for the United States and Great Britain/Ireland (GB&I) teams, respectively. The inaugural Concession Cup—a biennial amateur team match-play competition featuring teams consisting of leading Mid-Amateurs, Senior Amateurs and Super Senior Amateurs from the United States and GB&I — will be hosted at The Concession Golf Club, April 29 – May 3, 2014.

As part of Nicklaus' and Jacklin's roles as Honorary Captains, the World Golf Hall of Fame members will be featured guests at the event's Opening Celebration on Tuesday, April 29, to be held at The Concession Golf Club, the award-winning course and club that was inspired by one of sports' most-heralded acts of sportsmanship. Known throughout history as "The Concession," it was at the 1969 Ryder Cup when Nicklaus conceded a two-foot putt to Jacklin in the final singles match that led to the first tie in the history of the matches. The Concession Cup was created to celebrate the 45th anniversary of this iconic moment.

The Concession Golf Club's owners, the Cassidy Family—led by Bruce Cassidy and son Bruce Jr., the club's general manager—will open the doors to their club for a week that will pay homage to amateur golf and will also raise significant money for children's charities in their Southwest Florida backyard. The Concession Cup Opening Celebration will be a special night for all in attendance, giving attendees the opportunity to recognize the inaugural Concession Cup and be part of a platform to raise funds for three worthy charities: The First Tee of Tampa Bay, Orphan's Heart and the Nicklaus Children's Health Care Foundation.

"I am delighted to be a part of The Concession Cup and to join my friend Tony Jacklin as an Honorary Captain," Nicklaus said. "I have always held a deep appreciation and respect for amateur golf, and the Cassidy Family shares that admiration for the amateur game. I've enjoyed a great relationship with the Cassidy Family and The Concession Golf Club, so I am very pleased to lend my support and join them in this terrific event. On behalf of my wife Barbara, we also want to extend our heartfelt appreciation to the Cassidy family and their extended family at The Concession for including our Foundation in their fundraising efforts."

"Jack and I obviously shared a special time at the 1969 Ryder Cup Matches, and to know that the spirit of that moment was part of the vision for The Concession Cup is very gratifying," said Jacklin. "When asked, I immediately accepted the chance to serve as the Honorary Captain for the GB&I team and I am already looking forward to the event next April."

Tournament officials also announced today that Concession Golf Club members, Paul Azinger and Gary Koch, will take prominent roles with the Concession Cup. Azinger, the 1993 PGA Championship winner who captained the victorious 2008 U.S. Ryder Cup team, will serve as the event's Honorary Chairman. Koch, the NBC Sports commentator and six-time winner on the PGA TOUR, will act as host and emcee of the Opening Celebration.

"We are thrilled to have the support of Jack, Tony, Paul and Gary for The Concession Cup," said Bruce Cassidy Jr., general manager The Concession Golf Club. "What a tremendous statement of strength it is to have these gentlemen agree to support our inaugural tournament. Their participation only increases our anticipation for what we know will be a tremendous event, as we celebrate the spirit of Amateur Golf."

More details for this unique event will be available in the coming weeks and months. The tentative schedule is as follows:

November 12, 2013

Biennial Amateur Team Competition Announced

Mid-Am and Senior players from USA and Great Britain/Ireland

Dublin, OH – Officials from The Concession Golf Club and HNS Sports Group announced today the inaugural Concession Cup, a biennial amateur team match-play competition featuring Mid-Am, Senior and Super Senior competitors representing the United States and Great Britain/Ireland. The event will be hosted at The Concession Golf Club, located in Bradenton, Fla., during the week of April 28th, 2014.

The competition will be conducted over three days through the traditional team match-play formats of foursome, fourball and singles. Each team will be comprised of 18 players separated into three categories: eight (8) Mid-Am members (25 and older), eight (8) Senior members (up to age 65) and two (2) Super Senior members (65 and older). Team members will be selected by the Concession Cup Executive Committee and Captains in the first year of the competition based on current playing records as well as international competition experiences. It is the intent of the committee, which is comprised of representatives from The Concession Golf Club, HNS Sports Group and accomplished amateur golfers Alan Fadel and Adrian Morrow, to recognize players with accomplished competition resumes and who embrace the camaraderie and goodwill which the game embodies. Team members will be announced by December 15.

The contest will be staged in the image and likeness of other amateur team match-play competitions with the focus directed toward celebrating amateur golf and the spirit of international competition. In honor of two of the greatest amateur competitors in the history of the game, a trophy has been commissioned in the names of United States amateur, Bill Campbell and British Amateur, Sir Michael Bonallack – the Campbell/Bonallack trophy will be presented to the winning team at the conclusion of the matches.

"The Concession Golf Club is proud to assist in the development of the Concession Cup and to act as host to the inaugural competition," said Bruce Cassidy Jr., General Manager The Concession Golf Club. "Our heritage is built on the spirit of match-play competition – exemplified through the historic handshake between Jack Nicklaus and Tony Jacklin at the 1969 Ryder Cup Matches at the Royal Birkdale Golf Club in Southport, England. We are excited to bring this event to The Concession Golf Club and Bradenton, Fla. and are committed to establishing the event as a biennial tradition in amateur golf."

More details for this unique event will be available in the coming weeks and months. The tentative schedule is as follows: